Doobie Brothers Drummer Dies Of Cancer

By Andy Doerschuk

Published March 13, 2012

Doobie Brothers drummer Michael Hossack has died at his home in Dubois, Wyoming, succumbing to a long battle with cancer. He was 65.

Hossack joined the Doobie Brothers in 1971, playing alongside original drummer John Hartman. He recorded three of the band’s classic albums – Toulouse Street, Captain And Me, and What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits – before quitting the band in 1973 to open Chateau Recorders studio in North Hollywood.

Hossack would reunite with the band in 1987 and continue to tour with them until 2010, when he had to stop working due to his battle with cancer. However, he never gave up the fight. “It’s been hard not touring with the band but I have incredible support from my family, the Doobie Brothers, and all my friends out there,” he posted in a message to fans. “I can’t thank you enough for everything. All my best wishes to you all, and thanks for thinking of me.”